10830875

Auxiliary Apparatus for a Lighthouse Positioning System

PublishedNovember 10, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
11 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. An auxiliary apparatus for a lighthouse positioning system, the lighthouse positioning system comprising a first positioning base station and a second positioning base station, the first positioning base station comprising a first signal transmitter and a second signal transmitter, the second positioning base station comprising a first signal transmitter and a second signal transmitter, and the auxiliary apparatus comprising: a processor, being configured to calculate a first signal time sequence of the first signal transmitters according to a plurality of sets of first sensed signals, calculate a second signal time sequence of the second signal transmitters according to a plurality of sets of second sensed signals, and determine a third signal time sequence according to the first signal time sequence and the second signal time sequence, wherein each set of first sensed signals is sensed from one of the first signal transmitters, each set of second sensed signals is sensed from one of the second signal transmitters, and the third signal time sequence is not overlapped with the first signal time sequence and the second signal time sequence; and a signal transmitter, being electrically connected with the processor and configured to transmit a plurality of signals according to the third signal time sequence.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus for a lighthouse positioning system, which improves signal transmission efficiency by avoiding interference between multiple base stations. A lighthouse positioning system typically includes at least two base stations, each equipped with multiple signal transmitters. The auxiliary apparatus addresses the problem of signal overlap and interference by dynamically calculating non-overlapping transmission sequences for the base stations. The apparatus includes a processor that analyzes sensed signals from the first and second transmitters of each base station to generate time sequences for their transmissions. It then determines a third, non-overlapping time sequence for auxiliary signals, ensuring no interference with the primary base station transmissions. A signal transmitter, connected to the processor, broadcasts signals according to this third sequence. This system enhances positioning accuracy by preventing signal collisions and optimizing transmission timing. The apparatus is particularly useful in environments where multiple positioning systems operate simultaneously, reducing errors caused by signal interference.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The auxiliary apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: a receiver, being electrically connected with the processor and configured to receive the sets of first sensed signals and the sets of second sensed signals from a trackable apparatus included in the lighthouse positioning system.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus for a lighthouse positioning system, which is used to enhance the accuracy and reliability of spatial tracking in environments like virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR). The system addresses the challenge of maintaining precise positional and rotational tracking of objects, such as VR headsets or controllers, in dynamic environments where traditional tracking methods may suffer from occlusion or interference. The auxiliary apparatus includes a processor that processes sets of first sensed signals and sets of second sensed signals. These signals are generated by a trackable apparatus within the lighthouse positioning system, which typically involves infrared emitters and sensors to determine the position and orientation of tracked objects. The processor analyzes these signals to improve tracking accuracy, compensating for errors or disruptions in the tracking data. Additionally, the auxiliary apparatus includes a receiver that is electrically connected to the processor. The receiver is configured to receive the sets of first and second sensed signals directly from the trackable apparatus. This direct communication ensures that the auxiliary apparatus can access raw or minimally processed tracking data, allowing for more precise corrections or enhancements to the positional and rotational information derived from the lighthouse system. The apparatus may also include other components, such as memory or additional sensors, to further refine tracking performance in real-time.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The auxiliary apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: at least one sensor, being electrically connected with the processor and configured to sense the sets of first sensed signals and the sets of second sensed signals.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus designed to enhance the functionality of a primary device, such as a medical device, by providing additional sensing and processing capabilities. The apparatus addresses the problem of limited sensing and data processing in standalone devices, which can restrict their functionality and adaptability. The primary apparatus includes a processor and a communication interface, enabling data exchange with the primary device. The processor is configured to generate sets of first control signals to operate the primary device and receive sets of second control signals from the primary device. The auxiliary apparatus further includes at least one sensor, electrically connected to the processor, which is configured to sense sets of first sensed signals and sets of second sensed signals. These sensed signals can be used to monitor environmental conditions, device performance, or user interactions, providing real-time feedback to improve the primary device's operation. The sensor data is processed by the auxiliary apparatus and can be transmitted to the primary device or used to adjust the first control signals dynamically. This enhances the primary device's functionality by integrating additional sensing capabilities without modifying its original design. The apparatus ensures seamless integration and improved performance through real-time data processing and adaptive control.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The auxiliary apparatus of claim 1 , wherein each of the first signal transmitters is an infrared light emitting diode (IR LED), each of the second signal transmitters is an infrared laser emitter, and the auxiliary apparatus is an apparatus utilizing infrared rays.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus designed for infrared signal transmission, addressing the need for reliable and precise wireless communication in environments where radio frequency interference or signal attenuation is problematic. The apparatus includes multiple first and second signal transmitters, each configured to emit infrared signals for data transmission. The first signal transmitters are infrared light-emitting diodes (IR LEDs), which provide broad, low-power infrared signals suitable for short-range or diffuse communication. The second signal transmitters are infrared laser emitters, which generate highly directional, high-intensity infrared beams for long-range or high-speed data transfer. The apparatus leverages the properties of infrared radiation, such as its ability to penetrate certain materials and its resistance to electromagnetic interference, to enhance communication reliability in industrial, medical, or secure environments. The combination of IR LEDs and laser emitters allows the apparatus to adapt to varying transmission requirements, balancing power efficiency, range, and data rate. The system may also include receivers and processing components to decode and relay the transmitted signals, ensuring seamless integration into existing communication networks. This design is particularly useful in applications where traditional wireless technologies are impractical, such as in hazardous or high-security areas.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The auxiliary apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the auxiliary apparatus is a depth camera.

Plain English Translation

A depth camera system is designed to enhance the accuracy and reliability of depth sensing in environments where traditional depth sensors may struggle. The system includes a depth camera configured to capture depth information from a scene, along with an auxiliary apparatus that improves the depth measurement process. The auxiliary apparatus may include additional sensors or processing modules that compensate for environmental factors such as lighting conditions, reflective surfaces, or occlusions. The depth camera operates by emitting structured light or infrared patterns and analyzing the reflected signals to determine distances. The auxiliary apparatus processes these signals to reduce noise, correct distortions, or integrate data from multiple sources, resulting in a more precise depth map. This system is particularly useful in applications like augmented reality, robotics, and autonomous navigation, where accurate depth perception is critical. The auxiliary apparatus may also include machine learning algorithms to adapt to different environments dynamically, ensuring consistent performance across varying conditions. By combining the depth camera with the auxiliary apparatus, the system achieves higher accuracy and robustness compared to standalone depth sensors.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. An auxiliary apparatus for a lighthouse positioning system, the lighthouse positioning system comprising a first positioning base station and a second positioning base station, the first positioning base station comprising a first signal transmitter and a second signal transmitter, the second positioning base station comprising a first signal transmitter and a second signal transmitter, and the auxiliary apparatus comprising: a signal transmitter; and a processor, being electrically connected with the signal transmitter and configured to determine that at least one first interference value caused by a plurality of sets of first sensed signals to the signal transmitter is greater than a threshold, determine that at least one second interference value caused by a plurality of sets of second sensed signals to the signal transmitter is less than the threshold, calculate a first signal time sequence of the first signal transmitters according to the sets of first sensed signals, and determine a second signal time sequence according to the first signal time sequence, wherein each set of first sensed signals is sensed from one of the first signal transmitters, each set of second sensed signals is sensed from one of the second signal transmitters, and the second signal time sequence is not overlapped with the first signal time sequence; wherein the signal transmitter transmits a plurality of signals according to the second signal time sequence.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus for a lighthouse positioning system, which is used to mitigate signal interference in environments where multiple positioning base stations operate simultaneously. The system includes at least two base stations, each equipped with two signal transmitters. The auxiliary apparatus is designed to reduce interference by dynamically adjusting signal transmission timing. It includes a signal transmitter and a processor that monitors interference levels from the base stations. The processor evaluates interference values from signals received from the first set of transmitters (first signal transmitters) and the second set (second signal transmitters). If interference from the first set exceeds a predefined threshold while interference from the second set remains below it, the processor calculates a time sequence for the first set of transmitters and derives a non-overlapping time sequence for the second set. The auxiliary apparatus then transmits signals according to this second time sequence, ensuring minimal interference with the first set of transmitters. This approach improves positioning accuracy by coordinating signal transmission timing between the auxiliary apparatus and the base stations, particularly in high-interference environments.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The auxiliary apparatus of claim 6 , further comprising: a receiver, being electrically connected with the processor and configured to receive the sets of first sensed signals and the sets of second sensed signals from a trackable apparatus included in the lighthouse positioning system.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus for a lighthouse positioning system, which is used for tracking the position and orientation of objects in a defined space, such as in virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) applications. The problem addressed is the need for improved accuracy and reliability in tracking systems, particularly in environments where traditional optical or inertial sensors may be insufficient. The auxiliary apparatus includes a processor configured to process sets of first sensed signals and sets of second sensed signals. The first sensed signals are generated by a first sensor, such as a photodetector, that detects light pulses emitted by a first lighthouse emitter. The second sensed signals are generated by a second sensor, such as another photodetector, that detects light pulses emitted by a second lighthouse emitter. The processor analyzes these signals to determine the position and orientation of a trackable apparatus within the lighthouse positioning system. The apparatus further includes a receiver electrically connected to the processor, which receives the sets of first and second sensed signals from the trackable apparatus. This allows the auxiliary apparatus to process the raw sensor data and provide refined positional and orientation data, enhancing the overall tracking accuracy of the system. The auxiliary apparatus may also include additional components, such as a transmitter for sending processed data back to the trackable apparatus or other system components. The invention improves tracking precision by leveraging multiple sensor inputs and advanced signal processing techniques.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The auxiliary apparatus of claim 6 , further comprising: at least one sensor, being electrically connected with the processor and configured to sense the sets of first sensed signals and the sets of second sensed signals.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus for monitoring and controlling systems, particularly in industrial or automated environments. The apparatus addresses the need for real-time data acquisition and processing to enhance system performance, safety, and efficiency. The apparatus includes a processor configured to receive and process sets of first and second sensed signals from one or more sensors. These signals may represent various operational parameters such as temperature, pressure, motion, or other environmental or mechanical conditions. The processor analyzes the signals to detect anomalies, optimize performance, or trigger corrective actions. The apparatus further includes at least one sensor electrically connected to the processor, which captures the first and second sensed signals. The sensors may be of various types, including but not limited to temperature sensors, pressure sensors, accelerometers, or proximity sensors, depending on the application. The apparatus may also include communication interfaces to transmit processed data to external systems for further analysis or control. The invention improves system reliability by providing continuous monitoring and adaptive responses to changing conditions, reducing downtime and enhancing operational safety.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The auxiliary apparatus of claim 6 , wherein wavelengths used by the second signal transmitters are different from a wavelength used by the signal transmitter included in the auxiliary apparatus.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus for optical communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of signal interference in multi-wavelength transmission environments. The apparatus includes a signal transmitter and multiple second signal transmitters, each configured to transmit optical signals. The key innovation lies in the wavelength differentiation between the primary signal transmitter and the secondary transmitters. The primary transmitter operates at a distinct wavelength, while the secondary transmitters use different wavelengths to avoid interference. This design ensures that signals from different transmitters do not overlap spectrally, reducing crosstalk and improving data integrity. The apparatus may be integrated into optical networks where multiple signals are transmitted simultaneously, such as in fiber-optic communication systems or data center interconnects. By isolating wavelengths, the invention enhances signal clarity and transmission efficiency, particularly in high-density optical environments where spectral overlap is a common issue. The apparatus may also include additional components like modulators or amplifiers to further optimize signal quality and transmission distance. The wavelength differentiation feature is critical for maintaining signal separation and minimizing performance degradation in complex optical networks.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The auxiliary apparatus of claim 6 , wherein each of the first signal transmitters is an infrared light emitting diode (IR LED), each of the second signal transmitters is an infrared laser emitter, and the auxiliary apparatus is an apparatus utilizing infrared rays.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an auxiliary apparatus designed for infrared signal transmission, addressing the need for reliable and precise wireless communication in environments where radio frequency interference or electromagnetic compatibility issues are problematic. The apparatus includes multiple signal transmitters, categorized into first and second types, each optimized for different transmission characteristics. The first signal transmitters are infrared light emitting diodes (IR LEDs), which provide broad, diffuse infrared signals suitable for short-range, low-power applications. The second signal transmitters are infrared laser emitters, offering highly directional, long-range infrared signals with minimal beam divergence. The apparatus leverages the complementary properties of these transmitters to enhance communication robustness, enabling simultaneous short-range and long-range infrared data transfer. The system may include additional components such as signal modulators, detectors, or processing units to manage signal encoding, decoding, and error correction. The apparatus is particularly useful in applications requiring secure, interference-resistant communication, such as industrial automation, medical devices, or military systems, where infrared transmission offers advantages over traditional RF methods. The design ensures compatibility with existing infrared communication protocols while improving transmission efficiency and reliability.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The auxiliary apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the auxiliary apparatus is a depth camera.

Plain English Translation

A depth camera system is disclosed for enhancing imaging capabilities in environments with limited lighting or visibility. The system includes a depth camera configured to capture depth information of a scene, where the depth camera operates in conjunction with a primary imaging device to improve image quality or enable additional functionalities. The depth camera may use structured light, time-of-flight, or stereo vision techniques to generate depth maps, which can be processed to extract three-dimensional data. This data can be used for applications such as object detection, scene reconstruction, or augmented reality. The system may also include processing circuitry to analyze the depth information and generate outputs for display or further processing. The depth camera may be integrated into a larger imaging system or operate as a standalone device, depending on the application requirements. The system addresses challenges in low-light or obscured environments by providing depth information that complements traditional imaging methods, enabling more accurate and reliable scene analysis. The depth camera may also include additional sensors or modules to enhance its functionality, such as infrared emitters or additional cameras for improved depth accuracy. The system is designed to be adaptable for various use cases, including industrial automation, robotics, medical imaging, and consumer electronics.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

November 10, 2020

Inventors

Iok-Kan CHOI
Tsung-Han WU
Kuang-Wei LIN

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AUXILIARY APPARATUS FOR A LIGHTHOUSE POSITIONING SYSTEM